La Grande Arche - A Modern Arch of Triumph

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No trip to the French capital is complete without visiting one of the newest but most iconic tourist attractions in Paris. La Grande Arche de la Défense or the La Grande Arche as its better known is a monument located in the Parisian modern business district of La Défense. The stunningly dominating structure was erected as part of a competition in the early 1980’s by the then French President, Francois Mitterrand, for an architect to design an attraction that pays tribute to humanity and humanitarian issues around the world. The winning idea began construction in 1985 and completed at the end of the decade in 1989. The iconic centrepiece now attracts visitors from around the world and act as an urban centre identifying the bustling commercial district.

So, how was it built? The famous Arche was cleverly placed at the end of three other arches on the Triumphal Way so that is forms an axis with the two highest buildings in the city – the Tour Eiffel and the Tour Montparnasse with the east-west axis connecting to the Louvre with La Défense. Now widely recognised as one of Paris’ most popular landmarks la Grande Arche towers above the skyline – at twice the size of the Arc de Triomphe, its archway is remarkably large enough to fit the Notre-Dame Cathedral. The huge structure can be seen just beyond the city limits, on the other side of the Seine from the 17th arrondissement, and a short walk from your residence at Fraser Suites Harmonie, La Defense.

Rising to an eye-watering height of 110 metres it has a width of 106 metres. Within the two sides of the Arche government offices are housed. The roof section was previously an exhibition centre, housing the Musée de l’informatique (Computing Museum) and was popular for its views of Paris. Unfortunately, it is currently closed but is due to reopen in May 2017.

Location of the Grande Arche

Why is this such an important attraction in Paris? Well, aside from the art galleries and stunning avenues to stroll down, it shows off a different angle of Parisian architecture. You can see breath-taking views of the other landmarks all precisely aligned down the avenue.

Although the monument encompasses 35 floors of office space, visitors can take the time to explore the cybercafé and museum. Restaurants showcasing tantalising French cuisine from their professional menus. It’s best to avoid lunchtimes when visiting the area, as busy business professionals flock around on their lunch break and it can be difficult to enter the building due to crowds.

Book perfect accommodation next to la Grande Arche

Fraser Suites Harmonie, Paris La Défense is one of the closest serviced apartments near to La Grande Arche. We’re located under a mile away, along the N13 road. You will reach La Grande Arche in less than 5 minutes driving there by car or 20 minutes by walking.

Why stay with us?

Our guests return time after time as they know they are choosing to stay with the first class Fraser’s group of residences. Winners of the TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence for the third year in a row A tranquil sanctuary nestled within the active business district 5 star Fraser Suites Harmonie, Paris La Défense, is the perfect spot for discerning travellers looking to experience a touch of elegance and luxury while being in close proximity to many of Paris’ top corporate offices and landmarks.

Wake up in the comfortable surroundings of your luxury serviced apartment and step out to your private balcony*, that look out to spectacular views such as the highest point of the city at Montmartre hilltop, the outskirts of La Défense, our private garden or the exclusive neighbourhood of Neuilly Sur Seine in the western suburb of Paris.

Fraser Suites Harmonie, Paris La Défense offers 134 Gold-Standard luxury serviced apartments ranging from suites to two-bedroom apartments. Designed for comfort and convenience, the residences feature sophisticated interiors with classic touches, natural light and bold art works. Each of these comes with living, dining, kitchen and bedroom areas, a fully equipped kitchen, flexible workspace and comprehensive home entertainment system that are set to meet the needs of all at home. These are perfect hotel residences for business travellers in Paris.

Guests are truly spoiled with various options for residing with us. We highly recommend our stunning two bedroom suites in La Defénse, which are suitable for travellers with larger family units or for groups. These two-bedroom contemporary apartments feature fully-furnished separate living, dining, kitchen, complimentary Wi-Fi and bedroom areas and a balcony that looks out to our private garden or the Esplanade de La Defénse metro station situated along the outskirts of La Défense. The perfect option to unwind and relax you’ll find all the amenities you need to make your stay enjoyable and comfortable.

Residences where the customer comes first

Before venturing out to explore the city and the fantastic attractions within Paris, check out our breakfast room. With lots of different foods on offer to suit all tastes from our American style buffet even the pickiest of eaters are catered for. Let Fraser Suites take care of your first meal of the day.

Keep pushing for your gym goals at our guest-only, fully equipped gym (treadmill, bike, rowing machine, elliptical trainer, set of dumbbells and mats) to take care of your fitness needs. If you want to do some running or lift some weights we have cardio equipment and weight-training machines in our 24/7 facility.

Make the most of your stay in Paris and see as much as possible with the time that you have in the city. Ask our reception staff for recommendations of a guided tour of the city which includes taking in la Grande Arche - they will be please to assist with this.